Design Process

Following initial enquiry, we meet for a detailed discussion about your intentions for the property. In-depth questions help us understand your specific lifestyle needs or business goals. We conduct a site visit to assess site parameters and opportunities. size, light, air flow and location, and consider the design possibilities.

A scope of works document outlines the specific work to be carried out with a detailed fee outlining outline costs by phase to suit your specific project.

We use architectural concept drawings as an efficient way to communicate initial design ideas. Hand sketches show you the layout and design intentions. Listening to your feedback, we refine and resketch to arrive at the perfect design foundation.

With your agreement, we take the design to the next level of detail where we refine the exterior and interior with 3D applications that allow you to walk through the design. We work closely with trusted engineers and consultants to adapt and progress your design to completion, ready for either a Development Application or Complying Development Application.

During this phase we submit information to the local council or relevant body to approve your plans and gain permission to build. There are two types of approval which depend on the type, location and complexity of your project.

Development Application

Scalabrino Architecture prepares and submits a Development Application (DA) to your local council. We have great working relationships with Woollahra, Waverley and Randwick Councils, among others. The council considers your design according to the rules (controls) laid out in their Development Control Plan (DCP) and Local Environmental Plan (LEP), together with any concerns or objections from neighbours. The process can take a minimum 3 months, and longer if changes are needed. We liaise with the council on your behalf while keeping you updated. Once the DA is approved a Construction Certificate (CC) will be issued and building can commence.

Complying Development Certificate

A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) is a fast-tracked process for lower impact projects to avoid the more complex DA approval, taking as little as 2-3 weeks. If your design complies with statewide NSW planning code it is eligible to apply for a CDC. We prepare and submit documents on your behalf for assessment by a private certifier rather than council. The CDC gives permission for building to start immediately..

Scalabrino Architecture advises the best approval pathway for your project and prepares submissions. We have excellent relationships with local councils and private certifiers.

Once your application is approved we prepare detailed construction documentation. This is a set of drawings that show the project in detail including site plans, floor plans, sections and elevations, coordination of services , schedules such as doors, windows and finishes. Reports from engineers and other consultants are also included.

It’s important to choose the right builder to bring your beautiful design to life. Scalabrino Architecture helps you select from our trusted network of experienced builders. Working consistently in Sydney eastern suburbs for more than two decades gives us a bird’s eye view of local industry. We are also flexible to work with a builder of your choice if you already have one.

We prepare tender documents and put the project out for tender. We help you through the selection process, considering pricing, personality, reputation, building style and financial stability of each builder.

The tender documents are a part of the documentation required for the building contract, which is a binding agreement between you and the building contractor. The building contract is compulsory under state law. It supports good communication by clarifying both parties’ obligations from the outset. The contract contains full details on construction and, together with your architectural plans, provides a framework for the builder to work from.

With designs approved and building contracts in place, construction can finally start. Scalabrino Architecture continues to support you throughout the building stage. If required we can assist with financial administration by managing progress payments. We’re also on hand to answer any site queries that arise during construction. We regularly visit the building site to ensure strict adherence to approved designs.

Construction is a complex process and underlying issues may arise. For instance, you may find after opening a ceiling or wall that a beam that should exist isn’t there. With new works underway it needs to be quickly addressed while considering the aesthetic impact of this new item on the design. Being on site and in regular communication with the builder means we resolve issues promptly with solutions that maintain excellent quality and beautiful design.

A Building Defect Report is conducted to check that construction adheres to approved designs and fully complies with safety codes and sustainability measures. After the builder has addressed any amendments we submit the application for your Occupation Certificate (OC).

Once the Principal Certifier is satisfied your building complies, you will receive an OC authorising the occupation and use of the space. The exciting part - your beautiful new space is now ready to move in, rent out or list for sale.